Bentley has just pulled the covers off the new Continental GT S (and its drop-top sibling, the GTC S). If you know the Crewe-based carmaker’s nomenclature, you know that "S" usually stands for "Sport." In the past, that meant a bit of black trim and a louder exhaust.
This time, however, it means something a little more serious.
While the headline power figure doesn't chase the flagship Speed model, the engineering team has raided the parts bin to give the S the same chassis technology that makes the range-topper so agile.
The "Sensible" Engine Choice?
Let’s get the numbers out of the way. The Continental GT S is powered by Bentley’s familiar 4.0-litre cross-plane V8, paired with a hybrid system.
If you were hoping for a power bump over the standard model, you might be disappointed. It produces 671 bhp and 686 lb-ft of torque. That is significantly less than the 771 hp you get in the W12-powered Speed, but let’s be honest: 671 hp is hardly slow.
- 0–62 mph: 3.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 190 mph
It is fast enough to rearrange your internal organs. But the real story isn't the straight-line speed; it is what happens when you turn the wheel.
For the performance drivers
Bentley claims the S model is "aimed squarely at the performance-focused driver." To back that up, they have fitted it with the Performance Active Chassis.
Previously, you could only get this tech on the Speed and Mulliner versions. Now, it comes to the V8. This system includes:
- Active All-Wheel Drive: Can send power where it is needed most.
- All-Wheel Steering: Shrinks the car's turning circle and improves stability at speed.
- 48V Anti-Roll System: Uses electric motors to physically twist the anti-roll bars, keeping the car flat in corners without ruining the ride.
- Torque Vectoring: Brakes individual wheels to help the car rotate.
Perhaps most interestingly, Bentley has tuned the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) to be a bit more... playful. They explicitly state that with the systems off, "the cornering stance can be balanced on-throttle." In plain English: yes, you can drift it.
Dark Mode: Activated
You can spot an S model from three postcodes away because Bentley has deleted almost all the chrome.
The "S" specification brings a comprehensive black-out package. The grille, the window surrounds, the door mirrors, and even the rear diffuser are finished in gloss black. The headlights and taillights get a dark tint to match. It rides on massive 22-inch wheels that are unique to this trim, though other options are available.
Inside, the cabin leans into the sporty theme. You won't find acres of traditional wood veneer here. Instead, there is plenty of Piano Black trim and a mix of leather and "technical" fabric (read: fancy Alcantara-like material) on the seats and steering wheel. It is moody, dark, and very expensive-feeling.
Specs at a Glance
|
Feature |
Specification |
|
Engine |
4.0-Litre Cross-Plane V8 Hybrid |
|
Power |
671 bhp |
|
Torque |
686 lb-ft |
|
0-62 mph |
3.5 seconds |
|
Top Speed |
190 mph |
|
Drivetrain |
Active AWD with Torque Vectoring |
FAQs
Is the GT S faster than the GT Speed?
No. The GT Speed produces 771 bhp and hits 60 mph faster. The GT S is focused more on agility and handling than outright power.
Is it a plug-in hybrid?
Yes. The car uses Bentley’s "High Performance Hybrid" system, which likely offers a small electric-only range, though the focus is on performance boosting.
Can I get it as a convertible?
Absolutely. The upgrades apply to both the Continental GT S (coupe) and the GTC S (convertible).
What makes it handle better?
The S model gets the 48-volt active anti-roll system and all-wheel steering as standard. These systems help hide the car's weight and make it feel much smaller than it is.
When is it available?
Bentley has revealed the car now, so order books are likely opening immediately. Expect deliveries to begin later in 2026.
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